MANCHESTER, Aug 8 — Manchester United have finalised a deal worth up to €85 million (US$99 million, £74 million) to sign striker Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig, according to multiple UK media outlets.
MANCHESTER, Aug 8 — Manchester United have finalised a deal worth up to €85 million (US$99 million, £74 million) to sign striker Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig, according to multiple UK media outlets.
The BBC, The Athletic, and Sky Sports report that United will pay an initial €76.5 million for the 22-year-old Slovenian forward, with an additional €8.5 million in performance-based add-ons.
Newcastle United were also reportedly interested in Sesko, potentially eyeing him as a replacement for Alexander Isak, who has attracted attention from Liverpool. However, Sesko was reportedly drawn to United by the club’s historic stature, despite the team missing out on European football this season.
Sesko’s signing is expected to complete a major revamp of United’s misfiring frontline. The Red Devils managed just 44 goals in 38 Premier League games last season — one of the lowest tallies in the league — and finished a dismal 15th, their worst showing in 51 years.
The addition of Sesko follows earlier forward signings Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, pushing United’s recent spending on attacking players past £200 million.
Previously linked with Arsenal, Sesko impressed during his two seasons in Germany, netting 39 goals in 87 appearances for Leipzig, including 21 last season alone. Standing at 1.95 metres (6ft 4ins), the towering forward is known for his pace, power, and finishing ability — traits that have drawn comparisons to Manchester City’s Erling Haaland. Like Haaland, Sesko rose to prominence at RB Salzburg before moving to Leipzig in 2023.
United are counting on Sesko’s potential to help propel them back into Premier League contention. Combined, Sesko, Cunha, and Mbeumo scored 58 goals last season.
The club now faces pressure to see immediate results from this significant investment, especially as they operate under strict financial sustainability rules and without the boost of European competition revenue. — AFP
RB Leipzig’s Slovenian forward Benjamin Sesko (centre) controls the ball during the UEFA Champions League football match between RB Leipzig and Juventus FC at the Red Bull Arena in Leipzig on October 2, 2024. — AFP pic
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